Bourbon

Bourbon Review: Espy House Washington’s Reserve Barrel Strength Bourbon

We review Espy House Washington's Reserve Barrel Strength Bourbon, a six year old, single barrel, barrel strength Kentucky bourbon tied to a historical home.

OVERALL RATING

8
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Espy House Washington's Reserve Barrel Strength Bourbon review

Tasting Notes

About:

six year old Kentucky bourbon. ABV that ranges from 112.9-124.3. MSRP currently in the neighborhood of $120.
Appearance:
Copper coloring which darkens noticeably at the center of the glass.
Nose:
Not too hot on the nose despite the high proof. Aromas are brown sugar, cashew, light leather.
Palate:
Begins with a quick salvo of black pepper, but once the spice tingle wears off the notes of leather and mixed nuts from the nose carry over. The spice returns as sweet Big Red chewing gum cinnamon and notes of custard round out the finish.
Finish:
Comments:
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again– when I encounter a marketing campaign that leans heavily into narrative and drawing historical associations, my reflex is skepticism. But this is one of those happy instances where the whiskey itself more than pulls its weight. I don’t really know what Espy House means when they say that “Washington’s Reserve is born of the spirit of our founding father,” but I can say that having completed my tasting notes I poured myself a full glass to better enjoy the ride down an Internet research rabbit-hole on a bizarre and truly fascinating episode in American history. rnrnA solid, well balanced pour, Washington’s Reserve Barrel Strength Bourbon is easy drinking for the proof and delivers an array of enjoyable flavors.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Jacob Wirt

Jacob Wirt, whose past lives as a cook and cultural studies researcher, continues to shape his deep appreciation for fermented grain beverages. His understanding extends beyond the mere enjoyment of the drink; he recognizes the knowledge, labor, and rich history behind every glass. With a passion for homebrewing beer, Wirt finds a similar fascination in whiskey, exploring how techniques, ingredients, and nuanced variables create the distinctive character of each expression.

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